The Emirates Cup has become a tradition ever since the club moved to its new home in Ashburton grove. And this year’s edition kicked off with the home team facing the Spaniards, Atletico Madrid..

There was good news for the Gunners before the start as long time absentee Tomas Rosicky returned to action. I’m sure he’s raring to go after having been sidelined for so long. And he almost gave the Gunners an early advantage with his typical long ranger only to be flagged offside. At the opposition’s den, former gunner Jose Antonio Reyes was leading the charge but Arsenal seemed well equipped to thwart his efforts.
The second half was dominated in possession by the Gunners but Atletico, who proved their mettle last season by qualifying for the Champions League refused to be bogged down. All the drama was reserved for the last 5 minutes.
A perfect cross from Fabregas from the left flank found Arshavin with space and the Russian duly obliged with his left foot putting us in the lead. But minutes later, Arsenal’s defence momentary lapse allowed Atletico’s German striker Pacheco to equalize. With the prospect of extra time looming large, the Wonder Boy manufactured yet another moment of brilliance from a highly acute and improbable position to secure five precious points for Arsenal. We just hope that he carries his destructive form into the season because believe me, it could well be the detrimental factor just because he is that kind of a player.
Hail Andrei!! Hail the gunners!!